Suspect in Killing of Former Lakers Star Michael Cooper’s Younger Brother Is Back in Court Thursday

A preliminary hearing date is scheduled to be set on Thursday for the man charged with murdering former Lakers star Michael Cooper’s younger brother at a Pasadena park.

Aaron Miguel Conell is charged with murdering Mickey Cooper on Nov. 18, 2023.

Mickey Cooper was found with multiple gunshot wounds at approximately 4:00 a.m. and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Conell, a Pasadena resident, faces one count each of murder, attempted murder, and assault with a semiautomatic firearm. If convicted, he faces up to 50 years to life in state prison.

Police arrested Conell less than 24 hours after the murder, initially booking him on an unrelated assault with a firearm charge. Murder charges were added on November 20 as investigators gathered more evidence.

Investigators allegedly recovered a 9-millimeter semiautomatic firearm from Conell’s vehicle, which police believe was used in multiple shootings. Police have found no connection between Conell and any of his alleged victims.

The incident was part of a series of violent incidents that police say were committed by Conell.

Prosecutors say Conell shot a man in the neck, causing life-threatening injuries, at Washington Park on Oct. 29, 2023, at approximately 2:00 a.m. On Nov. 5 at approximately 9:30 p.m., Conell allegedly pointed a gun at a driver at a Pasadena gas station.

Former NBA great Michael Cooper described his slain brother as a gentle, loving person who struggled with drug addiction and often slept at Washington Park. He expressed gratitude to the Pasadena Police Department for their swift action in the case.

Conell, who has no prior felony convictions but has one misdemeanor conviction and no gang affiliations, remains in custody with bail set at $4.25 million.